KBRN, Jakarta: Three series of legendary electric commuter trains (KRL) have officially concluded their decades-long service. The fleet is celebrated as “Urban Transportation Heroes” for its dedication in serving millions of residents across Greater Jakarta.

The retiring fleet comprises the KRL Series 8500 Jalita, Series 7000, and Series 203. All three ended their operational life due to age, some reaching up to 50 years, and the depletion of spare parts.

The farewell event, titled “Last Run Arigato KRL”, was held at Jakarta Kota Station on Tuesday, November 11, 2025. The tribute highlighted the trains’ significant role in witnessing the city’s growth and becoming an integral part of community memories.

“So, when we talk about Heroes’ Day, it is not only about the figure of a hero. These KRLs have also become heroes, urban transportation heroes for Indonesia,” said Asdo Artriviyanto, President Director of PT Kereta Commuter Indonesia (KCI), operator of the Commuter Line rail service, as reported by RRI.

The tradition of honoring retiring trains was adapted from Japan’s railway culture. “The last run has long been practiced in Japan. Its purpose is to show appreciation and respect, acknowledging that these trains have served as heroes of mass transportation,” said Ricky Dwi Agusti, chairman of the Indonesian Railway Preservation Society (IRPS).

Japanese Embassy representative Kamigaki Reiko noted the special history of one series. “Among these trains, the Tokyu 8500 Series has a longer history. Imported from Tokyu Railways in Japan in the late 2000s, a total of 88 train units once operated here. It is very touching to know that the last eight trains will make their final journey today,” she said, as quoted by RRI.

Asdo emphasized that the trains were part of the personal journeys of many generations. “Many railfans were escorted by these trains. Those who were still in junior or senior high school traveled to and from school using the KRL. This has become a special memory,” he said.

The retirement also symbolizes appreciation for the close cooperation between Indonesia and Japan in the railway sector. The non-operational train sets will be temporarily stored before undergoing scrapping via auction. However, some will be preserved as monuments to commemorate their contribution.

Sections of the driver’s cabins from all three series will be permanently displayed at Jakarta Kota Station. As part of the tribute, KCI is also transforming one of the Series 8500 sets into a mini-museum.

The farewell event drew numerous railway enthusiasts, including visitors from Japan. The retirement of these legendary trains paves the way for the regeneration of a more modern commuter fleet in the future. ***